The Team
Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harrassment Statement
Mission Statement
Team Memphis Rescue & Support is a 501C3 non-profit all-breed rescue group that helps abandoned, neglected and lost pets. We are intensely devoted to helping pets find their forever home. Our existence depends on support from volunteers, fosters and donations. It's what makes saving animals possible.
Team Memphis Rescue & Support provides assistance to dogs in Memphis and surrounding areas who are displaced. We provide basic needs, vetting, evaluation of temperaments, and network to find foster and forever homes. Dog rescue is an ongoing battle. We are stronger when we stand together.
Team Memphis Rescue & Support provides medical care, including vaccinations, microchip and spay/neuter for all our adoptable pets. With years of experience, our goal is to find the perfect fit for each dog as well as the best pet for your family.
Donna Vandiver- Founder and Member at Large
Donna Vandiver has been a dedicated advocate for dog rescue since officially joining Imminent Danger German Shepherd Rescue (IDGSR) in 2016. Her commitment to animal welfare was evident even before then, as she grew up in a family that rescued dogs in need. Donna's retirement party was a heartwarming visit to the Memphis Animal Shelter (MAS) with her work family, where she first met Lorie. Inspired by the experience, her retirement wish became to save at least one dog, a goal she has passionately pursued ever since.
Throughout her adult life, Donna has taken in numerous dogs, including Woody and Bella, who were rescued at just one week old after their mother was shot by a county officer. She also adopted Gretchen, a semi-feral dog she fostered from IDGSR, when she left the organization. Additionally, her youngest son rescued Annabelle as a kitten from a friend's house, and she proudly shares that Annabelle is now 22 years old. Donna also has a forever foster, Betsy, who has been with her since 2017. Every family member in her home has been a rescue that chose her, reinforcing her belief in the special bond between rescuer and rescued.
Donna is the workhorse behind the rescue, choosing to take action over using words. She is the glue that keeps the board together, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Donna finds immense joy in working alongside like-minded individuals who share her passion for saving dogs. Witnessing the transformation of shy, timid dogs once they feel safe, as well as the recovery of medical or starving dogs, inspires her daily. She treasures the role she plays in helping these animals become beloved family members.
Her journey has also led her to meet amazing adopters who have become dear friends. One particularly special connection was with an adopter of her IDGSR foster dog, who reached out to ask if Donna would take her dog, Pascal, if she ever became unable to care for him. This heartfelt request humbled her, highlighting the deep bonds formed through their shared mission.
Donna believes that saving dogs enriches her life, making her a better person and fulfilling her in ways nothing else can. She shares her life with her husband, Charlie, and their sons, Will and Jacob, who support her unwavering commitment to animal rescue.
Ann Rutledge- Member at Large
Ann’s passion for animal rescue began early—at just six years old—when she found her first stray dog, Benji. With the help of some persistent tears and heartfelt pleading, she convinced her parents to let her keep him. That first rescue ignited a lifelong commitment to helping animals in need.
That love of dogs runs in the family. Years later, when Ann’s two now-grown sons were in junior high school, they “acquired” three pit bull puppies without telling her. She found them hidden in the house after work—proof that dog rescue must be in their DNA!
In 2007, Ann moved to Colorado and adopted two more rescue dogs, Stella and Deshie, who made the move with her to Memphis in 2018. Both lived full, loved lives before passing over the rainbow bridge.
During the pandemic, Ann and her husband, Michael, began fostering dogs together. Over the past two years, they’ve also rescued two strays from the streets of Memphis. The first, Red—a Doberman-Pit Bull mix—quickly became one of the best dogs she’s ever known. About a year later, Ann found a severely malnourished dog who was unable to stand or lift her head. With patience and slow feeding, she came back to life. They discovered she was deaf and had a permanent head tilt, likely due to malnutrition or injury. Because of her lean and circular walk, they lovingly named her Ilene. Ann had intended to place her with a foster but just couldn’t let her go.
Ann connected with Team Memphis Rescue & Support (TMRS) in 2023—naturally, through another dog. After seeing Milli, a petite Doberman mix, on the euthanasia list at Memphis Animal Services, Ann knew she had to step in. Wanting the support of an organized and trustworthy rescue, she reached out to TMRS. She was immediately impressed by their communication, coordination, and the care shown to every dog. Joining the team felt like a perfect fit.
Now a proud TMRS volunteer, Ann assists with dog transport, adoption and foster applications, and fundraising events. She and Michael both work from home, which gives them the flexibility to dedicate their time to rescue work. Michael is a natural at dog training, making them a dynamic team for foster dogs in need of structure and love.
When they’re not working or rescuing dogs, Ann and Michael love to travel, see their favorite bands live, and spend time with their children and grandchildren in California and Colorado.
Ann is honored to be part of TMRS and proud to work alongside a group of compassionate volunteers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of Memphis dogs.
Laura Yancey- President
Laura’s passion for animal rescue began unexpectedly one Friday night in 2001, on a busy street in Memphis, TN. On her way to meet friends, traffic suddenly came to a halt as cars swerved around something up ahead. As she approached, she saw a terrified dog darting through traffic. Without hesitation, she pulled over, got out, and gently coaxed the frightened dog to safety. Tail tucked and trembling, the dog allowed her to lift him into her car. She turned around and brought him home.
That dog—later adopted in New England and named Bhakti—would become the first of many lives she would help save. That night marked the beginning of what would grow into a defining part of who Laura is. The experience opened her eyes to the plight of companion animals in the South and sparked a deep commitment to support the dedicated rescuers already doing all they could.
Over the next two decades, Laura fostered more dogs than she could count for various rescues and shelters. She served on fundraising committees, volunteered at countless adoption events and local shelters, and learned from seasoned mentors in the rescue community. Each experience deepened her knowledge and strengthened her resolve.
In 2017, Laura took on a new challenge: fostering a pregnant German Shepherd. With the support of a German Shepherd rescue and the guidance of Lorie Beville—who would later co-found Team Memphis Rescue & Support—she successfully helped place the mother and her eight puppies, including an orphaned pup that joined the litter shortly after birth.
In 2023, she reconnected with Lorie and began volunteering with Team Memphis Rescue & Support. Her involvement spans transporting dogs, processing foster and adoption applications, and organizing fundraising events. The organization is entirely volunteer-run, driven by a shared calling to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs in need while educating the community to inspire lasting change.
Today, Laura is part of a growing, passionate community of animal advocates—people who support each other with one unwavering goal: to save more dogs. She is immensely proud to work alongside some of the most dedicated and compassionate individuals she has ever met. Many have become not only trusted partners in rescue but also lifelong friends.
Together, they are making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals—and each other.
Noadiah Sikinger- Vice President
With a 29-year career in the Navy, Noadiah Sikinger, known as Noa, has dedicated her life to service, both in her profession and her passion for animals. Growing up on a farm, she developed a deep love for animals, but due to her military commitments, she often had to forgo having pets of her own. However, this did not deter her spirit; Noa has been actively involved in animal rescues and shelters, volunteering across many organizations all over the world since she joined the service.
Now stationed in Colorado with her husband Jim, she devotes her energy to dogs in need. She is the proud parent of two rescue dogs, Koda and Mr. Winston, whom she personally found on the side of the road. Koda thrives in agility, while Mr. Winston thrives in cuddles. This personal connection to her furry companions inspired her to immerse herself in the Memphis Dog Crisis, where she works tirelessly to make a difference. As the Vice President of TMRS, Noa plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration and innovation within the rescue community.
Noa thrives in the realm of technology, using her skills to showcase adoptable dogs and build relationships with local rescues and shelters. In addition to her dedication to animal rescue, she loves being in nature, finding solace and inspiration in the great outdoors. Her unwavering belief in supporting anyone who wishes to save animals drives her mission forward.
Lena Zodda- Secretary
Lena Zodda has always nurtured a profound love for animals, a passion that has significantly shaped her life. She is currently the proud guardian of two rescue dogs: 14-year-old Frankie, who brings wisdom and warmth, and three-year-old Granger, full of youthful energy and joy. With over 13 years of involvement in animal rescue, Lena is dedicated to helping dogs find their perfect families, ensuring they receive the love and care they deserve.
As the organized rockstar of her group, Lena consistently provides honest information and thoroughly screens applications to guarantee that dogs at TMRS find their ideal homes. As a single mom to her son, Thomas, she is constantly on the move, supporting him in various sports and enjoying every moment of his growth and achievements. Balancing her responsibilities as a mother, she also navigates her career in corporate America, where she applies her skills and expertise.
Inspired by her mother’s teachings on the importance of volunteering, Lena believes in sharing her talents to help others. This commitment extends beyond animal rescue; she is actively involved in a charity that supports the less fortunate in southern Fayette County. Through her diverse efforts, Lena Zodda embodies a spirit of compassion and community service, making a meaningful impact in both the lives of animals and those in need.
Lorie Beville- Founder and Treasurer
Lorie began her journey in dog rescue in January 2012 by fostering three puppies for Bailey’s Arms Animal Rescue, where she “foster failed” with her beloved Ellie Mae. In February 2013, she joined Memphis Pets Alive, contributing her time to photograph cats and dogs at Memphis Animal Services in need of loving homes. Her passion for animal welfare led her to volunteer for multiple organizations, including Soar Doggy Rescue and Southeast German Shepherd Rescue.
By 2014, Lorie was actively involved with Memphis Pets Alive and began volunteering with Imminent Danger German Shepherd Rescue. She was appointed as the West TN Director for IDGSR in 2016, dedicating herself to the rescue’s mission until stepping down in 2020 to focus her efforts on a new initiative. In April 2020, Lorie and three fellow volunteers founded Team Memphis Rescue & Support, continuing their commitment to rescuing and supporting dogs in need.
Currently, Lorie is a proud caretaker of five senior rescue dogs, including her cherished Ellie Mae, who is now 13 years old. She remains dedicated to fostering other dogs, providing them with the love and care they deserve.
Outside of her rescue work, Lorie is a widow after 27 years of marriage and is a proud mother of two adult daughters, Brittni and Morgan, who are married to Matt and Jerry, respectively. She is also a doting grandmother to four grandchildren: Kolbi, Eliza, Oliver, and Rowan.
Through her work and community involvement, Lorie strives to make a meaningful difference in the lives of both dogs and families in need.
Team Memphis Rescue & Support is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all volunteers and community members. We believe that diversity enriches our organization and enhances our ability to serve our mission.
We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or any other protected characteristic. This applies to all aspects of our organization.
Additionally, we are dedicated to ensuring that our organization is free from harassment of any kind, including verbal, physical, or visual harassment related to the characteristics above.
By upholding these principles, Team Memphis Rescue & Support aims to create a culture of respect and kindness for all involved in our mission of rescuing and caring for dogs in need.
Ann Rutledge- Member at Large
Ann’s passion for animal rescue began early—at just six years old—when she found her first stray dog, Benji. With the help of some persistent tears and heartfelt pleading, she convinced her parents to let her keep him. That first rescue ignited a lifelong commitment to helping animals in need.
That love of dogs runs in the family. Years later, when Ann’s two now-grown sons were in junior high school, they “acquired” three pit bull puppies without telling her. She found them hidden in the house after work—proof that dog rescue must be in their DNA!
In 2007, Ann moved to Colorado and adopted two more rescue dogs, Stella and Deshie, who made the move with her to Memphis in 2018. Both lived full, loved lives before passing over the rainbow bridge.
During the pandemic, Ann and her husband, Michael, began fostering dogs together. Over the past two years, they’ve also rescued two strays from the streets of Memphis. The first, Red—a Doberman-Pit Bull mix—quickly became one of the best dogs she’s ever known. About a year later, Ann found a severely malnourished dog who was unable to stand or lift her head. With patience and slow feeding, she came back to life. They discovered she was deaf and had a permanent head tilt, likely due to malnutrition or injury. Because of her lean and circular walk, they lovingly named her Ilene. Ann had intended to place her with a foster but just couldn’t let her go.
Ann connected with Team Memphis Rescue & Support (TMRS) in 2023—naturally, through another dog. After seeing Milli, a petite Doberman mix, on the euthanasia list at Memphis Animal Services, Ann knew she had to step in. Wanting the support of an organized and trustworthy rescue, she reached out to TMRS. She was immediately impressed by their communication, coordination, and the care shown to every dog. Joining the team felt like a perfect fit.
Now a proud TMRS volunteer, Ann assists with dog transport, adoption and foster applications, and fundraising events. She and Michael both work from home, which gives them the flexibility to dedicate their time to rescue work. Michael is a natural at dog training, making them a dynamic team for foster dogs in need of structure and love.
When they’re not working or rescuing dogs, Ann and Michael love to travel, see their favorite bands live, and spend time with their children and grandchildren in California and Colorado.
Ann is honored to be part of TMRS and proud to work alongside a group of compassionate volunteers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of Memphis dogs.
Laura Yancey- President
Laura’s passion for animal rescue began unexpectedly one Friday night in 2001, on a busy street in Memphis, TN. On her way to meet friends, traffic suddenly came to a halt as cars swerved around something up ahead. As she approached, she saw a terrified dog darting through traffic. Without hesitation, she pulled over, got out, and gently coaxed the frightened dog to safety. Tail tucked and trembling, the dog allowed her to lift him into her car. She turned around and brought him home.
That dog—later adopted in New England and named Bhakti—would become the first of many lives she would help save. That night marked the beginning of what would grow into a defining part of who Laura is. The experience opened her eyes to the plight of companion animals in the South and sparked a deep commitment to support the dedicated rescuers already doing all they could.
Over the next two decades, Laura fostered more dogs than she could count for various rescues and shelters. She served on fundraising committees, volunteered at countless adoption events and local shelters, and learned from seasoned mentors in the rescue community. Each experience deepened her knowledge and strengthened her resolve.
In 2017, Laura took on a new challenge: fostering a pregnant German Shepherd. With the support of a German Shepherd rescue and the guidance of Lorie Beville—who would later co-found Team Memphis Rescue & Support—she successfully helped place the mother and her eight puppies, including an orphaned pup that joined the litter shortly after birth.
In 2023, she reconnected with Lorie and began volunteering with Team Memphis Rescue & Support. Her involvement spans transporting dogs, processing foster and adoption applications, and organizing fundraising events. The organization is entirely volunteer-run, driven by a shared calling to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs in need while educating the community to inspire lasting change.
Today, Laura is part of a growing, passionate community of animal advocates—people who support each other with one unwavering goal: to save more dogs. She is immensely proud to work alongside some of the most dedicated and compassionate individuals she has ever met. Many have become not only trusted partners in rescue but also lifelong friends.
Together, they are making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals—and each other.
Lindsey Lacey- Member at Large
Lindsey's love for rescue started when she adopted her first rescue dog in 2022, Neva, from Team Memphis. Though she lived out of state, Neva's smile on PetFinder caught her eye, and so she messaged us to see if we did out of state adoptions. A few weeks later, Neva was in her new home in Connecticut.
Despite only getting two short years with Neva, she became Lindsey's heart dog and Lindsey fell in love with rescues and helping rescue dogs. She has personally witnessed how rescue dogs can save and enhance people's lives, and believes in helping both dogs and their owners to foster successful rescue stories. She is passionate about helping the underdogs as well--dogs with behavioral and medical needs. Particularly, she has a passion for dogs with Addison's disease, which Neva had and one of Lindsey's current dogs has.
Lindsey lives in Pennsylvania, but it is her lifelong goal to populate the state with Memphis dogs. She lives with a pack of five dogs (one who is a second Team Memphis rescue dog) and her wife. She works as a data scientist and builds machine learning models for the county government where she lives, which are used to provide services to at-risk individuals. Through her work with dogs and humans, Lindsey strives to make the world a more pawsitive place.
